Neanche

Neanche is an Italian adverb and negation particle meaning “not even” or “not one,” used to intensify a negation. It is closely related to synonyms such as nemmeno and neppure, with usage that spans both informal speech and written language. The form neanche is common in many Italian varieties, while nemmeno is widely used as a neutral alternative and neppure is more literary or formal in tone.

Usage and syntax: Neanche is typically placed directly before the element it negates, usually a noun, pronoun, or quantified expression. Examples include: “Non ho neanche un minuto” (I don’t even have a single minute) and “Neanche lui sa la risposta” (Not even he knows the answer). It can appear with different parts of speech and helps to express exclusion or surprise by stressing what is lacking or absent.

Variants, nuance and regionality: While neanche is widely understood, speakers may choose nemmeno or neppure depending on style and region. Nemmeno is generally versatile and neutral, whereas neppure can carry a more formal or literary feel. In some contexts, neanche and nemmeno are interchangeable, though subtle register differences may guide the choice.

Etymology and history: The word is formed from ne (a negation) plus anche (also/too), combining to convey “not even.” Its use has grown in modern Italian, becoming a common tool for intensifying negation in both spoken and written registers.

See also: nemmeno, neppure.